Nogueira, F. R., Lixandrao, M. E., Libardi, C. A., Conceicao, M. S., Berton, R. P., Vechin, F. C., Frota, T., Chacon-Midahil, M. P., Cavablieri, C. R., Bottaro, M., & Ugrinowitsch,C. (2014). Time-course of skeletal muscle hypertrophy with resistance training in older adults. Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, 46(5), Supplement abstract number 2074.

This study investigated the time-course (weekly) of muscle hypertrophy (vastus lateralis cross-sectional area) following high-intensity resistance training in older adults (N = 6; 60+ years). Ss performed 10 weeks of leg-press resistance training, two days per week, with four sets of 10 repetitions at 70-80% of one repetition maximum (1 RM) with 60 seconds rest between sets. Cross-sectional area was assessed weekly (every two bouts) using B-mode ultrasonography, with a 7.5 MHz linear-array probe and the imaging fitting technique. The 1 RM test was performed at baseline and post-resistance training.

Significant increases in cross-sectional area occurred at weeks 9 and 10 compared to baseline. 1 RM increased significantly (~42%).

Implication. Resistance training was sufficient to promote increase in muscle strength in older adults. Compared to previous studies with young adults, older adults gain in cross-sectional area at a slower rate.

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